Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Petrosains to instil in the younger generation a deep interest towards Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).
The signing of the MoU marks a significant milestone as it brings together two wholly owned subsidiaries of PETRONAS under a single purpose; to support the nation-building by promoting STEM through learning and research.
At the event, UTP was represented by its Vice Chancellor Professor Ts. Dr Mohamed Ibrahim Abdul Mutalib, while Petrosains was represented by its Chief Executive Officer Ezarisma Azni Mohamad.
According to Professor Mohamed Ibrahim, “The MoU is a testament of UTP's continuous effort in realising its mission to provide opportunities for the pursuit of knowledge and expertise for the advancement of engineering, science and technology to enhance the nation's competitiveness.
“Through this partnership, UTP hopes to explore possibilities in creating important values and impact especially in STEM. As a leading university, we will continuously be at the forefront in promoting STEM.
“STEM education plays a vital role as the catalyst to meet the challenges and demands of the nation’s present and future economy. At UTP, we prepare students with the necessary skills to meet the science and technology challenges and ensure that Malaysia has continuous supply of competent talent and workforce,” he added.
Meanwhile, Ezarisma Azni Mohamad said, “We share a joint purpose with UTP in nurturing a passion for learning and supporting the desire for advancement, especially among our younger generation. Advances in automation, digitalisation of information and democratisation of knowledge are happening at an accelerated pace all over the world. With each generation, technology is better than the last, and the creation of new technology is happening at a faster rate, one generation to the next.
“As institutions premised on education, it is our duty and responsibility to nurture our incoming talent to be a force in embracing a culture of innovation. This is imperative, in order for us to achieve greater economic progress and to overcome societal challenges that are already causing disparity and inequality among communities of the world.
“In promoting STEM, both parties will organise various outreach events such as corporate social responsibility activities, activities organised by Yayasan PETRONAS, events and competitions, volunteer programmes, membership benefits and special projects.”
